The document discusses the potential for collaboration between occupational therapy and occupational health professionals in the emergency services sector. It describes a 10-week placement that an occupational therapist completed in the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service where they undertook projects in ergonomics, restricted duties frameworks, and work injury prevention. It compares the traditional medical-focused model of occupational health to the more client-centered approach of occupational therapy. It also outlines challenges to collaboration between the professions and strategies for overcoming them, including maintaining clear communication and boundaries.

1. Complementary Professions? Occupational Therapy and Occupational Health in the Emergency Services Thursday, 24th June 2010 Jeni Bright [email_address]

7. Working Collaboratively; Common Goals and Differences Occupational Therapy Client centred Driven by occupation Predominately take an advisory approach Occupational Health Principle orientated Use a bio-psychosocial models, such as ICF Flexible approach Driven by the needs of the organisations Process driven Focus on the physical aspects of health Enabling and Empowering Use the medical model Retaining employment Safe environment Reducing employee absenteeism

10. Working Together

12. OT Intervention to Meet the Challenges Initiative OT skills Fit notes Functional assessments Job analysis Activity analysis Work-injury prevention programmes Activity analysis Job analysis Ergonomic assessments Environmental assessments Group skills Health Promotion Brief interventions Motivational interviewing Group sessions